Keep an eye on your eyesight

If you drive, it goes without saying that you know you need
your eyes on the road at all times. What you might not know is that DVLA has
minimum eyesight standards that all drivers need to demonstrate so they can be
allowed to drive. Motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay,
reports.

Vision Standards

We all have busy lives, and sometimes we might overlook the
signs that our eyes are not as good as they were. You might be finding it
harder to judge distances, you might be struggling to read the newspapers, or
it’s getting more difficult for you to drive at night. These are just a few
signs that your eyesight may be deteriorating.

Best Advice

In line with advice from optometrists, the best guidance is that you
should get your eyes tested at least every two years. But if you recognise any
of the signs above, don’t wait – go and get checked out straight away with your
optician or doctor. If they advise you to tell the DVLA about your eyesight,
you can do this online.

Don’t Worry

Don’t worry – usually, most people who tell the
DVLA they’ve got a medical condition are still allowed to drive. If
you have a worsening condition but can still meet the eyesight standards for
driving, you may get a short-term licence rather than a full-term one. This
type of licence lasts for one, two, three or five years and when it’s due for
renewal, the DVLA will let you know.

It’s better to be safe than sorry. So if you’re in doubt,
get it checked out.